I read in the Daily News last week's interesting "As I See It" on the buildings history, but was suprised by the editor's note at the end.
(Editor's note: Mr. Finneran originally planned to add a story onto the building, then filed plans to demolish it. This column was written before the plans to tear it down were made public).
So I did a search for the demolition plans but couldn't find any mention.
Then yesterday, I saw this piece, which discusses the plans to add a second story. I do agree with the Historical Commission's position. A building with clapboard siding doesn't fit in with that stretch of the downtown.
So what's going on, exactly? Is he tearing it down or building it up.
BTW, this will be an interesting trial balloon. First, a contentious argument over this building could strengthen the calls for a historic district downtown. Second, if this fellow gets clapboard it opens up a world of architectural possibilities for New England Development's projects.
9 comments:
I don't know, but I agree that a clapboard structure would be incongruous with that stretch of Merrimac.
A bit off topic, but does Karp own both of the delapitated houses on either side of the Fitness Factory? They are such eye sores and need to be leveled.
While I'm ranting, who can I complain to about the lack of sidewack that stretches from Merrimac up Winter Street in front of that project that seems to be taking a decade to complete? There has been no sidewalk there for years now and I'm getting fed up.
Regarding the buildings, I don't know.
Regarding the sidewalks, when in doubt I always like to complain to my ward Councilor.
Fortunately for you, your's reads this blog (as does mine) so you've got a head start.
"your's"?
Much better, but really, there was nothing wrong with the old template.
Really, Tom, you should do your part for the local creative economy and hire a professional web developer. I figure $5 or 6K should do the trick. Whomever you hire will be eternaly grateful, and will drink to your health while dining at 10 Center or Glen's. You will swell with pride for doing your part, your face pressed to the window, as you watch them enjoying themselves.
Bean, don't ruin your day. I'm on the sidewalk issue.
I do believe that NED does own both mentioned eyesores. But rather than leveling them (to be replaced by what?) how about either restoring them, or having them moved> They are both good examples of architecture of the period.
James Shanley
Grammar Police, if that is your real name, thanks for finally showing up.
This place is a regular Tombstone, AZ of grammar.
Now get on the stick!
Glad to hear you are "on the case" James, and hope to see some results. It's been discouraging to see a develepor get away with not paving a public sidewalk for such a long period of time. That is a very dangerous intersection for pedestrians as it is, and when the puddles build up there now and people step out onto Merrimac to avoid them, they're risking their lives.
You're right about the buildings. I'm all for historic preservation and restoration, and would prefer that option over razing almost any building. If that is what NED has planned, that's great. Heck, a fresh coat of paint would do wonders.
Grammar Police! Son! Where have you been all these years? Your mother and I have been searching and searching. Please contact us. Life has not been the same without you. We miss you, Son, please come on home.
-Mom & Dad Police
That was a pleasure to publish. Very, very funny.
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